DEI initiatives do not have to be complicated or difficult to maintain, but they do require an ongoing commitment. Catapult provides toolkits to support your planning process, although many companies starting this initiative might benefit from professionals with facilitation experience and the right set of tools.
We also offer consulting services related to DE&I planning and implementation, which include manager- and employee-level training. Reach out to your Catapult HR Advisor to learn more.
Catapult’s DEI planning and implementation process generally encompasses seven phases:
Step 1: Foundational Work
• Understanding the why behind your efforts and commitment levels
• Determining available company resources
• Assessing the current state of the workforce
• Soliciting employee attitudes and goals related to DEI
Step 2: Learning & Self Reflection
• General training on DEI concepts as relates to the workplace (all employees)
• Training related to manager responsibilities
Step 3: Leadership Meetings
• Reviewing state of company
• Identifying areas of concern
• Mapping out future steps
Step 4: Employee Meetings
• Creating a safe space/discussing feedback
• Articulating Vision
• Introducing future and “resources group” concept
Step 5: Incorporating DEI into the Culture
• Reviewing policies, practices, talent processes
• Reviewing social media/website
Step 6: DEI Resource Groups
• Managing special projects
• Maintaining momentum
• Generating awareness
Step 7: Measure Success
• Measuring progress to targets that have been set
• Regrouping periodically to determine status/adjustments
You do not have to have a diverse organization to begin this process. Diversity should be a priority for those organizations that currently lack it, and an additional step for those companies which have attracted diverse employees but are not intentional in their efforts.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion programs are designed to create a workplace where everyone can bring their full self to the workplace in an appropriate and welcome way. They benefit employee morale, retention and hiring, but also reduce conformity of thinking and siloed planning which can result in an inflexible and stagnant organization.
